- Key Roles: Ashwini Kumar, a 1997-batch IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, served as Principal Secretary for Urban Development & Urban Housing Department until June 2025, with additional charge as Principal Secretary for Ports & Transport Department from February 2025.
- Career Highlights: With nearly 28 years of experience, Kumar has been instrumental in policy formulation, infrastructure development, and urban governance, notably during his tenure at the Chief Minister’s Office.
- Educational Background: Holds a B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from IIT Kanpur and a Master’s in Public Services, Policy & Management from King’s College, London.
- Current Status: Likely transferred in June 2025, with M Thennarasan succeeding him in Urban Development, though Kumar’s contributions remain significant.
- Key Contributions: Oversaw transformative urban projects like the Smart City Mission, AMRUT, and affordable housing initiatives in Gujarat.
Who is Ashwini Kumar?
Ashwini Kumar is a seasoned Indian Administrative Service officer known for his extensive contributions to Gujarat’s urban and infrastructural development. Until June 2025, he served as the Principal Secretary for the Urban Development & Urban Housing Department in Sachivalaya, Gandhinagar, and took on additional responsibilities in the Ports & Transport Department in February 2025. His career spans nearly three decades, marked by leadership in policy execution and infrastructure planning.
What Has He Achieved?
Kumar has played a pivotal role in advancing Gujarat’s urban landscape. He has overseen major initiatives like the Smart City Mission, which implemented 354 projects worth over Rs. 11,455 Crore, and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), enhancing water supply and urban transport. His leadership in affordable housing and sustainable energy projects has improved living standards across the state.
Why Is His Work Important?
Kumar’s efforts have positioned Gujarat as a model for sustainable urban development in India. His work on digital governance, such as the e-Nagar Portal, and public transport enhancements, like the addition of electric buses, reflect a commitment to modern, inclusive cities. His dual role in ports and transport further underscores his impact on Gujarat’s economic growth.
Recent Developments
As of July 1, 2025, recent reports suggest Kumar may have been succeeded by M Thennarasan as Principal Secretary for Urban Development in June 2025. However, his legacy in shaping Gujarat’s urban policies and infrastructure continues to resonate, making his biography a compelling study of public service excellence.
From Vision to Urban Transformation: The Inspiring Journey of Ashwini Kumar, IAS
Ashwini Kumar, a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 1997 batch of the Gujarat cadre, has been a pivotal figure in shaping Gujarat’s urban and infrastructural landscape. Until June 2025, he served as the Principal Secretary to the Government for Urban Development & Urban Housing Department in Sachivalaya, Gandhinagar, driving transformative projects that blend sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. His additional charge as Principal Secretary for the Ports & Transport Department from February 2025 further highlights his multifaceted expertise and the critical role he played in Gujarat’s development agenda. This biography delves into Kumar’s life, career, and contributions, offering a comprehensive look at a leader who has steered one of India’s most dynamic states toward a brighter future.
Early Life and Education: A Foundation for Excellence
Born and raised in India, Ashwini Kumar exhibited a keen interest in engineering and public service from a young age. He pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, where he honed his technical skills and analytical thinking. Recognizing the importance of public policy in driving societal change, Kumar later obtained a Master’s Degree in Public Services, Policy & Management from King’s College, London. This unique blend of technical expertise and administrative acumen has been instrumental in his ability to tackle complex challenges in governance and development.
Career Progression: A Journey of Dedication and Leadership
Kumar’s career in the IAS began in 1997, marking the start of a remarkable journey in public service. Over nearly three decades, he has held various pivotal roles across multiple departments of the Government of Gujarat, showcasing his versatility and dedication. His tenure at the Chief Minister’s Office was particularly significant, where he played a crucial role in policy formulation, infrastructure development, and urban governance. This experience equipped him with a deep understanding of the state’s developmental needs and the intricacies of public administration.
In 2016, Kumar served as Secretary to the Chief Minister, a role that highlighted his strategic importance in Gujarat’s governance . Before his appointment to the Urban Development & Urban Housing Department in 2023, he was Principal Secretary for the Sports, Youth & Cultural Activities Department, contributing to the state’s sports infrastructure and cultural initiatives. His transfer to Urban Development marked a new chapter, where he drove significant urban transformation until June 2025, when M Thennarasan succeeded him .
In February 2025, Kumar was entrusted with the additional charge of Principal Secretary for the Ports & Transport Department, a role that aligned with Gujarat’s focus on infrastructure expansion and sustainable port operations . His career reflects a remarkable ability to navigate diverse sectors, from urban planning to maritime logistics.
Current Roles and Responsibilities: A Leader at the Helm
Until June 2025, Ashwini Kumar served as Principal Secretary for Urban Development & Urban Housing, overseeing the planning, implementation, and monitoring of urban development projects across Gujarat. His role was critical in ensuring that the state’s cities were equipped with modern infrastructure, sustainable practices, and improved quality of life for residents. His additional charge as Principal Secretary for Ports & Transport from February 2025 involved enhancing Gujarat’s maritime sector and logistics networks, aligning with the state’s Vision 2047 roadmap.
Kumar also held several key positions in organizations central to Gujarat’s development:
- Chairman, Gujarat Urban Development Company Limited: Leading urban infrastructure projects.
- Chairman, Urban Ring Development Corporation Limited: Overseeing urban transport corridors.
- Nominee Director, GIFT City Company Limited: Contributing to Gujarat’s global financial hub.
- Nominee Director, Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation Limited: Guiding metro rail expansion.
- Nominee Director, Diamond Research and Mercantile City Limited: Supporting the diamond industry.
- Nominee Director, Gujarat Town Planning Consultancy Limited: Advancing urban planning.
- Nominee Director, Gujarat Olympic Planning & Infrastructure Limited: Driving sports infrastructure.
- Nominee Director, Gujarat Sports Infrastructure Development Company (GSIDE): Enhancing sports facilities.
These roles underscore Kumar’s broad influence across urban development, transportation, and sports infrastructure, making him a central figure in Gujarat’s growth story.
Key Projects and Initiatives: Transforming Gujarat’s Urban Landscape
Under Kumar’s leadership, Gujarat witnessed significant advancements in urban development. His oversight of major initiatives positioned the state as a model for sustainable and inclusive urban growth. Key projects include:
| Initiative | Details | Figures |
|---|---|---|
| AMRUT 1.0 & 2.0 | Enhanced water supply, sewage systems, and urban transport, with AMRUT 2.0 focusing on water security and circular water economy. | – |
| Smart City Mission | Implemented 354 projects, with 338 completed, improving traffic management and public Wi-Fi. | Rs. 11,455 Crore total, Rs. 10,793 Crore completed |
| Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shahri Vikas Yojna | Infrastructure upgrades from 2009-2022. | Rs. 42,615 Crore |
| Renewable Energy | Plans for 250 MW for Municipal Corporations and 150 MW for Municipalities. | – |
| Affordable Housing | Mukhyamantri Gruh Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) provided housing for low-income groups. | 8.62 lakh houses approved, 7.41 lakh completed |
| Chief Minister Urban Bus Services (CMUBS) | Added 2,864 buses, including 300 electric buses, to improve public transport. | 1,293 buses added, 464 electric buses |
| e-Nagar Portal & ODPS | Streamlined citizen services and reduced development approval times from 90 to 28 days. | Launched 2017-18 |
Vision and Leadership: A Holistic Approach to Development
Ashwini Kumar’s leadership is characterized by his ability to integrate technical expertise with administrative acumen. His vision for Gujarat involves creating smart, sustainable, and inclusive cities that serve as models for urban development in India. His dual role in urban development and ports & transport highlights a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of sectors. His involvement in Vision 2047, Gujarat’s long-term development roadmap, underscores his commitment to sustainable growth.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Transformation
Ashwini Kumar’s journey from a chemical engineering graduate to a leading figure in Gujarat’s administration exemplifies dedication, expertise, and a commitment to public service. His contributions to urban development, infrastructure planning, and policy execution have left an indelible mark on Gujarat, shaping its cities into vibrant, sustainable, and efficient urban centers. Although he may have transitioned from his role as Principal Secretary for Urban Development in June 2025, his legacy continues to influence the state’s future.